Abuja: The Federal Government has launched a new strategic plan for nursing and midwifery to improve workforce retention and fast-track Nigeria's journey towards Universal Health Coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals. Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, announced the initiative during the Nursing Summit and the launch of the Nigerian Strategic Directions for Nursing and Midwifery (NSDNM) 2025-2030.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the summit, themed 'Strengthening Nursing and Midwifery Services in Nigeria for Universal Health Coverage through Implementation of NSDNM,' gathered stakeholders to discuss reforms and investments in nursing and midwifery services nationwide. Prof. Pate emphasized the central role of nurses and midwives in healthcare delivery and outlined the new plan's focus on enhancing education, career development, leadership, and workforce retention.
Prof. Pate detailed that President Bola Tinubu had approved recruitment waivers to fast-track the hiring of nearly 20,000 federal health workers, with 60% being nurses and midwives. He highlighted the need for an enabling environment, including infrastructure and resources, to ensure effective service delivery.
Dr. Ndagi Alhassan, Registrar of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, mentioned that while annual nurse production has increased significantly, challenges remain in integrating trained professionals into the national health system. He introduced the Community Nursing and Midwifery Programme to address employment gaps, urging state governments to absorb trained personnel.
Ms. Mary Brantuo from WHO highlighted the underrepresentation of nurses and midwives globally and warned of a projected shortfall by 2030, particularly in Africa and Southeast Asia. She noted that the Nigerian strategy is aligned with WHO's global directions, focusing on education, employment, leadership, and service delivery.
Mr. Koessan Kuawu of UNFPA Nigeria discussed the agency's promotion of midwife-led care and the need for additional midwives to meet WHO recommendations. He emphasized UNFPA's commitment to workforce training and leadership development, noting the economic benefits of investing in midwife-led care.
Sen. Ipalibo Banigo, Chair of the Senate Committee on Health, assured continued legislative support for initiatives enhancing nursing and midwifery education and access to quality services nationwide. The strategic document aims to expand education, create jobs, manage migration, and support healthcare professionals where they are most needed. It also seeks to boost leadership in nursing and midwifery, ensuring professionals are respected, well-trained, and empowered to deliver quality care.